When you are arrested and charged with a crime in Nevada, your case follows certain rules of criminal procedure. By understanding these rules, you will understand the steps which will take place in your case before it is resolved, and what our attorneys can do for you along the way to obtain the best results.
When you hire an attorney from Liberators Criminal Defense, we will walk you through what will happen in your particular case, including how plea offers work, how we can lay the groundwork for dismissal or probation, how we can suppress evidence, and how we can appeal your case if you are convicted.
The basic steps of a criminal case in Nevada are:
- Arrest
- Arraignment
- Negotiations
- Preliminary Hearing (for felonies or gross misdemeanors)
- Further Negotiations
- Pretrial Discovery
- Motions
- Trial
- Sentencing (if convicted)
- Appeal (if convicted)
- Probation Violations
The legal system can be intricate and overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with it. If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Nevada, it's crucial to understand the basic steps of the criminal case process. Below, we outline each phase, offering insights into what to expect and how we, at Liberators Criminal Defense, stand by your side every step of the way.
1. Arrest
After a crime is reported and investigated, the police may arrest the suspected individual based on evidence or witness statements.
2. Arraignment
This is the initial court appearance. Here, the defendant hears the charges against them and enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
3. Negotiations
Before diving into a trial, both the defense and prosecution might discuss possible plea deals or arrangements to avoid court proceedings.
4. Preliminary Hearing (for felonies or gross misdemeanors)
A hearing to determine if there's enough evidence to proceed to trial. If the judge finds probable cause, the case will advance.
5. Further Negotiations
Continued discussions between the defense and prosecution, often refining previous arrangements based on evidence or changing circumstances.
6. Pretrial Discovery
Both sides exchange information and evidence. This allows each side to prepare for trial by knowing what evidence the other side plans to use.
7. Motions
Legal arguments presented to the court by both sides, asking the judge to make specific decisions on various issues, like evidence admissibility.
8. Trial
If no agreement is reached, the case goes to trial. Both sides present evidence and witnesses, and a judge or jury renders a verdict.
9. Sentencing (if convicted)
If found guilty, the defendant will be sentenced. This could range from fines and probation to imprisonment, depending on the crime.
10. Appeal (if convicted)
The defense can challenge the conviction or sentencing by arguing legal errors that may have affected the trial's outcome.
11. Probation Violations
If a defendant violates the terms of probation, they could face additional penalties, ranging from extended probation to jail time.
While some steps are straightforward and expedient, others can be prolonged and intricate, requiring expert navigation. Our team at Liberators Criminal Defense is here to guide you, advocate for you, and fight for your rights every step of the way.
Ready to Know More? Click on each step to dive deeper into its intricacies and understand how we can assist you best.
Some of these steps are quick and easy. Some last for months and require the litigation of motions before the court, evidentiary hearings, and other complex matters that your attorney can assist you with. Click above on each of the steps for more information about what happens during each portion, and the different ways Liberators Criminal Defense can fight for you.